The resolution was passed by a two thirds majority and will be debated at the up-coming National Party state conference and reads:

"That members of the Federal Parliamentary National Party be allowed a conscience vote on proposed changes to the Marriage Act regarding same sex marriage."

Australian Marriage Equality national convener, Alex Greenwich said, "Marriage equality is important to many rural and regional Australians because they believe in marriage and want their gay and lesbian friends and family members to share in its benefits."

"As support for marriage equality increases in the National and Liberal Parties, Tony Abbott’s resistance to a free vote will seem increasingly out-of-step."